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Why ‘Idle No More’ is gaining strength, and why all Canadians should care - thestar.com

Why ‘Idle No More’ is gaining strength, and why all Canadians should care - thestar.com
First, it is a matter of social and environmental justice. When corporate profit is privileged over the health of our lands and waters, we all suffer. When government stifles debate, democracy is diminished. Bill C-45 is just the latest in a slew of legislation that undermines Canadians’ rights. In standing against it, the First Nations are standing for us too.
Second, as Justice Linden of the Ipperwash Inquiry said, “we are all treaty people.” When our governments unilaterally impose legislation on the First Nations, they dishonour the Crown, they dishonour us, and they dishonour our treaty relationship. We are responsible for ensuring that our governments fulfill their commitments. If our governments do not respect Indigenous and treaty rights, then the very legitimacy of the Canadian state — and thus of all our citizenship rights — is in doubt. That’s what Idle No More is about.

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ENGLISH FOLK POEM, 1764

ENGLISH FOLK POEM, 1764

They hang the man and flog the womanThat steal the goose from off the common,But let the greater villain looseThat steals the common from the goose.The law demands that we atoneWhen we take things we do not ownBut leaves the lords and ladies fineWho take things that are yours and mine.

The poor and wretched don't escapeIf they conspire the law to break;This must be so but they endureThose who conspire to make the law.

The law locks up the man and womanWho steals the goose from off the common;And geese will still a common lackTill they go and steal it back.